In a bid to enhance their comprehensive strategic partnership, Chinese President Xi Jinping and German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier engaged in talks in Beijing on Friday. The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation between the two major global economies.
President Xi highlighted the significance of closer ties between China and Germany, emphasizing their shared responsibilities in maintaining international economic stability and fostering China-European Union relations. He advocated for stronger communication and mutual respect, encouraging both nations to prioritize openness and partnership over isolation and confrontation.
During the meeting, Xi pointed to the complementary strengths of the two economies, with Germany’s advanced manufacturing and high-quality products aligning with China’s modernization and economic development goals. He urged German businesses to increase their investments in China to leverage its vast consumer market while calling for a fair and transparent business environment for Chinese companies operating in Germany.
The leaders discussed potential collaborative opportunities in artificial intelligence, green technology, low-carbon development, and digital services, aiming to bolster future competitiveness. Xi also proposed greater cooperation in education, culture, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges as the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Germany approaches in 2027.
Addressing China-EU relations, Xi reiterated Beijing’s stance on prioritizing cooperation over competition, expressing hope for strengthened dialogue and a balanced international order. German President Steinmeier acknowledged China’s economic and technological progress, reaffirming Germany’s commitment to the One-China policy and expressing faith in future bilateral relations.
Steinmeier emphasized resolving economic and trade disagreements through dialogue and consultation, expressing Germany’s readiness to work with China in supporting international peace, free trade, and adherence to the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law. Both leaders underscored the importance of opposing protectionism and trade conflicts amid mounting global challenges.
The meeting underscored the mutual interest of China and Germany in enhancing economic cooperation, ensuring international stability, and expanding diplomatic engagement in response to evolving global conditions.